Description:
A Non-Profit Membership Organization seeks a full-time Staff Attorney in our Urban Wildlands Program, which uses innovative campaigns, policy and litigation to protect wildlife and communities threatened by unsustainable development.General Position Overview: The Urban Wildlands program works to protect wildlife and habitats vulnerable to unsustainable development while advocating for healthy and climate resilient communities. The Staff Attorney will work as part of a team using law, science, media outreach and advocacy to protect the environment and fight destructive land use policies. In particular, the staff attorney will work to advance land-use policies and practices to protect habitats and important wildlife connectivity areas in the urban-wildland interface that support endangered and sensitive species. The ideal candidate will have excellent research, writing, and public speaking skills with an ability to think strategically and creatively. The working environment is fast-paced, exciting and supportive.
Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:
- Develop and litigate cases in state and federal court targeted at stopping destructive development and supporting environmental conservation.
- Work with frontline communities and conservation organizations in local, regional and statewide coalitions to proactively protect vulnerable ecosystems while also opposing destructive and polluting projects.
- Engage in analysis and advocacy, including meeting with public decisionmakers and providing public comment on proposed land use regulations, plans and projects.
- Communicate with the media, decision-makers, the public, allies and opinion leaders through writing, outreach and public speaking.
Essential Qualifications and Skills:
- At least three years of environmental law experience, including familiarity with the California Environmental Quality Act, National Environmental Policy Act, Administrative Procedure Act, Endangered Species Act and Clean Water Act;
- Member of the California state bar;
- Excellent writing, communication, research and oral advocacy skills;
- An ability to develop cases and manage a busy docket;
- Passion for, and knowledge of, the natural world, wildlife and waters, and a demonstrated commitment to conservation and environmental justice.
